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Our Autumn Ozheart Award winner, Alexandre (affectionately known as Alex), joined Ozcare just over a year ago, bringing with him a story of courage, purpose and heart.
Before coming to Ozcare, Alex worked in retail on the Gold Coast for seven years and had previously built a successful career in banking and a corporate role with Pepsi, spending more than 12 years in corporate environments. But his life changed profoundly during a holiday trip back to Brazil to visit his friends and family.
Just three days before returning to Australia, Alex’s mother passed away in his arms. He performed CPR and stayed with her until she passed in the hospital, a moment that changed his life forever.
While flying back to Australia, Alex made a promise to himself to change his life and do something meaningful. He wanted to give back and make a difference in others’ lives.
Determined to follow this new path, he enrolled in his Certificate III, Certificate IV and Diploma in Community Services. Once qualified, Alex printed his resume and personally visited aged care providers across the Gold Coast, hoping someone would give him an opportunity.
When he walked into Ozcare and met Jess, Ozcare’s Administration Support Officer, he said he immediately felt something special and a connection to De Paul Villa.
A few days later, he received a call from Eliza, Facility Manager, Aged Care, inviting him to a phone interview, followed by an in-person meeting. He recalls feeling incredibly nervous, knowing this would be a major life change, but he also knew it was the right one.
Shortly after, Alex received job offers from several providers. But when it came time to choose, he followed his heart.
“From the bottom of my heart, I chose Ozcare.”
His first week was emotional, as memories of his mother were still very present. But with encouragement from his brothers and support from his colleagues, by the second week, he said Ozcare already felt like home.
Today, what motivates Alex most is the difference he can make in people’s lives.
“The best thing about coming to work every day is that I can make our clients’ lives better.”
He speaks warmly about his team and the culture at Ozcare. “The staff here are amazing. I love everyone, I feel like they are my family.”
Alex often shares his positive experiences with friends and encourages others to consider working in aged care. “Friends ask me why I am so happy, and I tell them, just love this place.”
After 10 years living in Australia and a long career across different industries, Alex says working at Ozcare has been the most fulfilling role he has ever had. “This is the best job I’ve had. I feel complete, and it’s wonderful. Each day I ask myself how I can improve tomorrow, and what can I do, to make a difference.”
Alex’s story is one of resilience, purpose and compassion, values that truly reflect the heart of Ozcare.
Congratulations to Alex, our Autumn Ozheart winner, and thank you for the kindness, strength and dedication you bring to our clients and team every single day. 💙